Students from Howell’s Voyager Elementary School sing “Lean on Me.”
A camp for vulnerable children and a local psychologist are building connections with children that make the entire Livingston County community a safer, healthier place, and have been recognized for their positive impact in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Each year, LACASA Center’s Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Council and Great Start Livingston invite the community to nominate individuals and organizations for the Champions for Children awards. A committee selects the winners from those nominations and celebrates their work to uplift the profound impact positive influences can have on the lives of children.
“In a world where children face numerous challenges, the presence of supportive adults and organizations is invaluable,” said Holly Naylor, LACASA’s director of family planning and education. “The Champions for Children we honor today have stepped up to be guiding lights, offering encouragement, stability, and a sense of belonging to Livingston County children.”
This year’s winners, who were recognized at the annual Plant a Pinwheel event at the Howell Carnegie Library, are:
Jill Leutze, a psychologist and autism consultant with the Livingston County Educational Service (LESA) and Hartland Consolidated Schools. Leutze has been supporting students with disabilities for 20 years, and has been instrumental in guiding and nurturing those who need additional accommodations. She also facilitates professional development for educators throughout Livingston County and teaches one-on-one swim lessons to children with disabilities. In addition, she is a dedicated foster parent and advocate.
North Star Reach, a Pinckney-based nonprofit which provides transformative camp experiences to children with serious health challenges and their families. The organization also provides volunteer opportunities for Livingston County residents to engage in supporting children through a piece of childhood that they might not otherwise experience.
“These Champions are shining examples of how each one of us can play a part in creating safe, supportive, and enriching environments where children can thrive,” Naylor said. “Their work underscores that prevention is about building a better future filled with hope, opportunity, and the unwavering belief in every child’s potential.”
To learn more about LACASA’s CAP Council and the different trainings and workshops offered in April and throughout the year, click HERE.
